KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Skoda unveils 2026 Kushaq facelift with bold new design
- Connected LED DRLs, new tail lamps, and illuminated Skoda lettering
- First-ever panoramic sunroof and rear massage seats added
- New 8-speed automatic gearbox for 1.0 TSI engine
- Monte Carlo variant confirmed with sporty blacked-out styling
Skoda Kushaq Facelift: Skoda Auto India has officially taken the wraps off the 2026 Kushaq facelift, marking the first major design and feature overhaul of the mid-size SUV since its debut in 2021. Interestingly, even before the formal unveiling event, Skoda revealed the updated model through its official online configurator, giving us a clear look at what's new.
As a crucial product under Skoda's India 2.0 strategy, the Kushaq has played a key role in the brand's growth story. With this facelift, Skoda aims to strengthen its position in a fiercely competitive segment by adding more style, tech, and premium appeal - without altering the core strengths that made the SUV popular in the first place. Before moving ahead, do join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to stay versed on the latest automotive news.
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Exterior: Sharper, Wider, More Premium
The facelifted Kushaq adopts Skoda's latest global design cues, making it look noticeably more modern and aggressive.
At the front, the SUV gets:
- New LED headlamps
- Connected DRLs that stretch across the width
- A redesigned grille with a bolder, wider look
- A reworked bumper with full-LED fog lamps
From the side, the silhouette remains familiar, but the SUV now rides on newly designed 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels on higher trims. At the rear, the changes are more prominent:
- New connected LED tail lamps
- Illuminated Skoda lettering in red
- Sequential turn indicators
- Revised bumper design
- Matte silver skid plates at both ends
These updates give the Kushaq a more upmarket and contemporary road presence.
Interiors
Skoda has made meaningful upgrades inside the cabin, focusing on comfort, aesthetics, and technology.
Key interior highlights include:
- New dual-tone theme in grey and beige
- Redesigned seat upholstery matching the new colour scheme
- A larger digital MID (TFT instrument cluster)
- Updated touchscreen infotainment system
- Panoramic sunroof (a first for the Kushaq)
- Rear massage seats
The familiar two-spoke steering wheel, Climatronic automatic climate control, and ventilated front seats are expected to continue. Overall, the cabin now feels more premium and feature-rich, addressing one of the biggest demands from Indian buyers.
Powertrain
The Kushaq facelift continues with its turbo-petrol-only strategy, but there's a notable mechanical update.
Engine Options:
1.0-litre TSI (3-cylinder)
- Power: 115 PS
- Torque: 178 Nm
- Gearboxes: 6-speed manual and new 8-speed AISIN torque converter automatic
1.5-litre TSI (4-cylinder)
- Power: 150 PS
- Torque: 250 Nm
- Gearbox: 7-speed DSG automatic (no manual option)
- Features: Active Cylinder Technology (ACT)
The new 8-speed automatic on the 1.0 TSI should improve refinement and efficiency, making it more appealing to urban buyers.
Safety: Still a Core Focus
Built on the MQB-A0-IN platform, the Kushaq continues to prioritize safety - something Skoda has strongly marketed since launch.
The outgoing model already holds a 5-star Global NCAP rating, and the facelift is expected to carry forward this legacy with features such as:
- Six airbags
- ESC (Electronic Stability Control)
- Hill-hold assist
- Traction control
- Rollover protection
- Brake disc wiping
- TPMS
- ISOFIX mounts
Skoda is likely to retain or enhance this safety package.
Monte Carlo Variant Confirmed
The facelifted Kushaq will also be available in a Monte Carlo trim, aimed at enthusiasts who prefer a sportier look.
This version will feature:
- Darker interior theme
- Blacked-out exterior elements
- 1.5 TSI engine only
- 7-speed DSG as standard
Expected Pricing & Rivals
While official prices haven't been announced yet, the facelifted Kushaq is expected to be priced close to the current model.
Expected price range: Rs. 10.7 lakh - Rs. 19 lakh (ex-showroom)
It will continue to rival popular SUVs like:
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Honda Elevate
- MG Astor
- Tata Curvv
- Maruti Grand Vitara
- Toyota Hyryder
- Volkswagen Taigun
- Tata Sierra
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Verdict
With refreshed styling, a more premium interior, new tech, added comfort features, and a new automatic gearbox, the 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift looks like a well-rounded update rather than a cosmetic one. It keeps its core strengths intact - safety, performance, and driving dynamics - while addressing customer feedback on features and cabin feel. Skoda seems ready to make the Kushaq more competitive than ever in Indias crowded mid-size SUV segment.
